Communication programs across the Midwest's 143 institutions produce graduates with career earnings ranging from $33,267 to $89,363. The region's communication degree holders earn a median of $57,358—$1,541 higher than the national average, demonstrating strong program outcomes in journalism, media careers, and public relations.
Leading the list is University of Michigan-Ann Arbor, achieving the highest program earnings at $66,507. Northwestern University follows closely with $62,765, while University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign rounds out the top tier at $60,558, showcasing how flagship public universities compete with elite private colleges for graduate outcomes.
| Rank | School | Location | Earnings | Net Price | Acceptance Rate | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #201 | Bethany Lutheran CollegePrivate | Mankato, MN | $27,488 Median Communication Earnings | $12,571 | 39.0% | 54.9% |
| #202 | Lincoln UniversityPublic | Jefferson City, MO | $26,356 Median Communication Earnings | $20,070 | — | 20.8% |
| #203 | The University Of OlivetPrivate | Olivet, MI | $25,967 Median Communication Earnings | $19,656 | 83.3% | 35.3% |
| #204 | Quincy UniversityPrivate | Quincy, IL | $23,538 Median Communication Earnings | $16,502 | 50.9% | 45.0% |
| #205 | North Park UniversityPrivate | Chicago, IL | $23,182 Median Communication Earnings | $14,845 | 68.5% | 57.7% |
| #206 | Macalester CollegePrivate | Saint Paul, MN | $21,508 Median Communication Earnings | $13,772 | 28.5% | 87.1% |
| #207 | Chicago State UniversityPublic | Chicago, IL | $15,817 Median Communication Earnings | $9,073 | 43.3% | 15.5% |
